Djibril Cisse Bio: Career, Injury, DJ & Net Worth

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Djibril Cissé is a professional French football player who currently plays for Panathinaikos Chicago in the National Premier Soccer League.

Over 19 years of his football career, Cisse played for 13 different teams in different leagues around Europe. He started his football career at AC Arles in 1989, at the early age of eight.

Notably, Cissé has also represented the France national football team at the 2002 and 2010 FIFA World Cups.

Djibril Cisse celebrates after scoring goal
Djibril Cisse celebrates after scoring a goal.

However, Djibril’s career was not an easy one. He had many ups and downs in his football career, from injuries to a scandal.

To know more about his personal and professional journey, stick with us. 

Quick Facts:

Name Djibril Cisse
Date of Birth August 12, 1981
Birth Place Arles, France
Nick Name Babalawo & TCHEBA
Age 42 Years Old
Gender Male
Religion Roman Catholic
Nationality French
Ethnicity Unknown
Horoscope Leo
Education Unknown
Height 6 ft 0 inches (1.83m)
Weight 78kg (171 lbs)
Body Mass Index (BMI) 23.2
Build Muscular
Hair Color Mixed
Eye Color Black
Tattoo Yes
Father Name Mangue Cisse
Mother Name Karidiata Cisse
Siblings N’ma Cisse, Damaye Cisse, Abou Cisse, Fode Cisse, Seni Cisse, and Hamed Cisse
Relationship Single
Ex-Wife Jude Little (2005-2014)
Childen  Cassius Cisse, Prince Kobe Cisse, Marley Jackson, and Ilona Cisse
Profession Retired Footballer/ DJ
Playing Position Central Striker
Jersey Number 9, 12, 13, 99, 23, 18, and 29
Team Auxerre, Liverpool, Marseille, Sunderland, Panathinaikos, Lazio, Queens Park Ranger, Al-Gharafa, Kuban Krasnodar, Bastia, Saint- Pierroise, Yverdon, and AC Vicenza
Playing Career 1998-2017
Net Worth $35 million
Salary 1.5 million EUR
National Team  France Football Federation (2002-2011)
Shoe Deal New Balance
Social media Instagram / Twitter 
Clothing Mr. Lenior Paris
Merch Autograph, All Cards
Last Update April, 2024

Djibril Cisse | Early Life and Family

Djibril Cisse was born on August 12, 1981, in France to Ivorian parents Mangue Cisse Djibrila and Karidiata Cisse.

His late father, Mangue Cisse Djibrila, was a professional footballer who had captained the Ivory Coast. 

Moreover, Djibril was brought up with his six brothers and sisters by his mother at their home in Arles, France. Cisse was the youngest and seventh child of the family. 

He started playing football at a younger age. His father linked football as Cisse’s only sport.

In 1989 at the age of 7, Cisse signed a schoolboy contract with AC Arles. It was a major step for progressing his football career.

After seven years, Cisse switched to Nimes for a better experience. But after a few months, in 1996, he joined Auxerre. In 1998 Cisse graduated to the first team of the club.

Also, read: <<Lukas Klostermann Bio: Early Life, Career, Injury & Salary >>

Djibril Cisse | Body Measurement, Hair, and Tattoos

The professional football player was born in the year 1981, which makes him 42 years old.

Cisse stands 6 feet tall (1.83) and weighs around 78kg (171 lbs). He has maintained his body in perfect muscular form. 

Furthermore, Djibril workouts and exercises to stay in the best shape possible. His body is also covered with tattoos. He has more than 40 arts tattooed on his body.

Some of his tattoos include Chinese symbols, a back tattoo that is wings, his children’s names, and many more. Besides, Djibril is also famous for his unique hairstyles.

If you search online, you can find Cisse haircuts in the worst or best hairstyles.

His iconic hairstyle is the mohawk, which was first seen while playing for Liverpool. Cisse changes his hairstyle and color frequently.

Djibril Cisse | Club Career

Professional Debut

Guy Rox, coach of AJ Auxerre, promoted Djibril Cisse to the first team at 17. Later on March 20, 1999, he made his Ligue 1 debut against Paris- Saint Germain.

In the 2000-01 season, Cisse scored his first goal for the club in a 2-1 loss against FC Metz. In his first full season, Cisse netted eight goals over 25 games.

Ligue 1 Top Scorer

Later, in the 2001-02 season, Djibril Cisse became Ligue 1 top scorer. Over 29 matches, he scored 22 goals and helped Auxerre secure the Champion league spot finishing third.

In the next season, Cisse was fourth on the top scorer list with 14 goals. In Coupe de France’s successful triumph Cisse scored six goals in six matches, including 1 in the final 2-1 win over PSG.

Cisse won his second golden boot in the 2003-04 season. This season was Cisse’s most successful season in terms of goal scoring.

He scored 30 goals in all competitions, with 26 coming in  Ligue 1. In his Auxerre career, he scored a total of 90 goals in 168 matches.

Switch to Liverpool

In the 2004 summer transfer, Cisse joined Liverpool for £14 million. In his first season, he scored five goals in 24 games. 

First Serious Injury 

Everyone questions what if he was injured? Cisse was a promising talent in world football, with pace, acceleration, and powerful strike backing him to score goals. 

But on October 30, 2004, he faced a horrible injury during a game against Blackburn Rovers. He snapped his leg while challenging for the ball with Jav McEveley.

Further, Cisse was expected to be out for the rest of the season following his injury. Later, he also revealed that he could have lost his leg if staff hadn’t received prompt attention.

Istanbul Miracle

On April 13, 2005, he made an unexpected return against Juventus in Uefa Champion League (UCL) second leg. In the last game of the season, Cisse scored two goals in a 2-1 win over Aston Villa.

Later, in Istanbul Miracle, which is dubbed as the greatest UCL Finals, he converted a penalty in a penalty shootout against Ac Milan.

Liverpool won 3-2 in penalties after making an incredible comeback after only 3-0 in the first half.

At the start of the next season, Djibril Cisse scored two goals to help Liverpool win the 2005 UEFA Supercup against CSKA Moscow.

In the 2006 FA Cup Final, he scored the opening goal against Westham, where Liverpool won 3-1 later on penalties.

Transfer to Marseille

Since 2005 Marseille has been considering a move for Djibril Cisse. But only in the summer of 2006 did both parties agree to terms.

However, he suffered a broken leg (ayak kırılması/patah kaki) the same day during international duty. So, they agreed on one year loan later. 

On December 22, 2006, Cisse netted his first-ever goal for Marseille in 2-1 over AS Saint Etienne.

Djibril finished the season with eight goals in 21 appearances. Marseille also finished the season, securing the second position. 

On July 7, 2007, Marseille signed Cisse permanently for €8 million. But in the same window, many Premier Clubs were interested in signing him.

First Premier League Return

On August 20, 2008, Cisse joined Sunderland on a loan deal. Later he scored the winning goal against Tottenham.

Likewise, Cisse also scored his 10th league goal in a 4-1 victory over Hull City on April 18, 2009. Further, in May, Cisse returned to Marseille after his permanent deal could not conclude.

Don’t forget to check out: <<Alonzo Menifield Bio: Troubled childhood, Career & Net Worth >>

Fan Favourite

On June 25, 2009, Cisse joined Panathinaikos on four years deal for a transfer fee of around €8 million, excluding bonuses.

In his first season only, he became a Super League topscorer scoring 23 goals in 28 matches. Djibril Cisse, with his goal-scoring form, helped the team secure the domestic double. 

Cisse became a fan favorite in Panathinaikos, and he was slowly making progress in returning to the best form with the club.

In the 2010 season, he captained his team and collected his first and only MVP trophy for his performance. Overall he scored 18 goals in 20 appearances. 

Next stop Itlay

On July 12, 2011, Cisse joined the Italian side Lazio for €5.8 million. He scored his only league goal for Lazio in his debut 2-2 draw against AC Milan.

In his Europa League debut, he scored a brace in a 6-0 win over FK Rabontnicki.

Second Return to Premier league

On January 31, 2012, Cisse joined Queens Park Rangers on 2.5 years deal. He made an immediate impact, scoring in his debut in a 2-2 draw against Aston Villa.

Further, Djibril also scored six goals in just eight appearances for QPR in his half-season. Later just one year after joining QPR on loan, he left on loan to sign with Qatari club Al Ghaffar.

During his loan spell, Cisse scored one league goal and four goals in AFC Champion League. On June 28, 2013, Cisse became a free agent after terminating his QPR contract with mutual consent.

Series of Club Change

On July 3, 2013, Cisse signed with Kuban Krasnodar on one year deal. He scored five goals in 25 appearances for the club.

Later on January 1, 2014, he signed 1.5 years deal with Ligue 1 side SC Bastia. Over two seasons in Ligue 1, he just scored two goals and failed to score in his second season. 

In June 2015, Cisse signed with Saint-Pierroise on one monthly contract where he just played one game.

Initial Retirement and Return to Football

Cisse firstly retired in 2015 because of a hip injury at just the age of 34. However, he came out of retirement to train with his boyhood club Auxerre.

But after failing to convince the French club, he Swiss Third Division side Yverdon Sports Fc. Cisse is surely the biggest name to play for Yverdon.

In Cisse one year spell, he became the league’s top scorer, netting 24 goals, but his side failed to gain promotion. 

You can find the latest news, stats, market value, rumors, transfers, and achievements related to Djibril Cisse on the Transfermarkt website.

Djibril Cisse | National Team Career

2001 FIFA World Youth Championship

Djibril Cisse was first called up in the U-19 France team for the 2001 FIFA World Youth Championship. On June 18, 2001, Cisse scored a hattrick against Iran in his debut only, winning 5-0.

Later in the round of 16 on June 27, 2001, he scored two against Germany to cruise France towards the quarterfinals.

Djibril Cesse
Djibril Cisse inside the field.

But sadly, in the next match, France U-19 lost against the eventual champion Argentina U-19 side. In the whole tournament, Cisse scored six goals. 

Cisse France’s U-21 career didn’t go quite well. In the first leg of the 2004 U-21 UEFA European Championship, he netted two important goals to help France take a 2-1 advantage in the first leg.

However, on the second leg, he was sent off for kicking Mario Sergio. After the match, he was sentenced to 5 match ban.

Senior Team

On May 18, 2002, Djibril Cisse made his international debut in a 2-1 loss against Belgium. He came as a substitute for David Trezeguet. 

First World Cup Appearance

For his fine top scoring 2001-02 season, Cisse was awarded a place in the France squad for the 2002 FIFA World Cup.

He played in all three group matches coming as a substitute. France’s journey also ended in the group stage only.

In Euro 2004 qualifiers against Cyprus on September 7, 2002, Cisse scored his first International goal securing a 2-1 victory.

2003 FIFA Confederations Cup

Cisse was selected for the 2003 FIFA Confederations Cup as a 23-member squad for France. He scored his only goal in a tournament against New Zealand.

They won the match 5-0. In the final against Nigeria, Cisse was involved in starting 11, where France won by 1-0.

The 2003 FIFA Confederations Cup is the only international trophy Cisse has won in his International Career.

Another Setback

Cisse was included in the 2006 FIFA World Cup, but in a warmup match on June 7, 2006, Cisse suffered another broken leg.

Just 10 minutes into the match, Cisse was knocked off balance by Chinese captain Zheng Zhi, resulting in a leg twist.

Cisse crying after suffering injury against China
Cisse crying after suffering an injury against China

So, he went to surgery for an open fractured tibia because Cisse was out of the world cup campaign. Cisse’s injury against China is considered one of the most horrific injuries in football history.

2010 FIFA World Cup

After a fine goal-scoring season in Planthikonas, Cisse was included in the squad for the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

Cisse played in just the final group stage match against South Africa. France’s 2010 World Cup was devastating and went without winning a single game.

Sex Tape Scandal

In 2017 Djibril Cisse was kept under investigation, accused of involvement in a sex tape blackmail attempt against fellow French player Valbuena. 

Cisse 100% confident of Valbuena sex tape exoneration. However, he insisted on nothing wrongdoing. Just a few weeks before the incident, Djibril revealed he was quitting football. 

DJ Career

In 2017 Djibril Cisse retired from football for the second time to focus on his DJ career.

He was always fond and passionate about being  DJ. At the time of leaving Panathinaikos, Cisse celebrated a farewell party with himself as DJ.

Moreover, Djibril has already performed in many national as well as international events. His tracks can be found on platforms like youtube, sound cloud, etc.  

Djibril Cisse | Personal life, Wedding & Divorce

Djibril Cissé was previously married to Jude Little. They got married on June 18, 2005, and their grand wedding was held at Bodelwyddan Castle.

Around 200 guests were invited, and some notable guests include Steven Gerrard, Zidane Zidane, Thierry Henry, Louis Saha, and Shaun Wright-Phillips. 

According to sources, their wedding cost was estimated at around £1,00,000. Moreover, Jude and Cisse have three children together named Cassius, Prince, and Marley.

Not to mention, he also has one daughter named Ilona from his previous relationship, but her mom is not revealed.

Divorce

Cisse and Jude divorced in 2014. Their divorce became so controversial. Firstly Jude cut a cake with a decapitated groom in her divorce.

Later she went to the BBC5 show along with their children to talk about their divorce. Then later, Cisse on Twitter posted an angry rant against his ex-wife for taking boys to the show. 

Cisse’s three boys are following in his footsteps. Cassius and Marley play for Crewe Alexandra Academy. Similarly, Prince plays for the Liverpool youth team.

In 2019 Jude spoke that her child is targeted with racial abuse. Cisse fully supported for investigation as well as supporting his boys.

You might be interested in reading: <<Robert Lewandowski Bio: Stats, Club, Career & Net Worth >>

Djibril Cisse | Net Worth, Salary, and Endorsements

According to The Richest, Djibril Cisse, net worth is estimated at around $35 million. He made most of his earnings from his football career.

According to various sources, Cisse used to earn £80k to Â£100k per week while playing football.

Besides, he also makes money from his DJ career. In addition, he also runs his own clothing brand, i.e., Mr. Lenior Paris. 

Djibril Cisse
Djibril Cisse sporting his blonde hair

Being a famous figure, Cisse also has endorsement deals with various brands like NewBalance, ASM Talent, etc. The lifestyle portrayed by Cisse shows he is making good money. 

Furthermore, he has starred in many successful movies like Taxi 4, Les 11 commandments, U R A Million $ Girl Film, Looking for Athènes, etc.

Social Media Presence:

Djibril Cisse is quite active on social media platforms and has a huge fan following. He usually posts about his lifestyle and past football moments on his social media. You can follow him via these links:

Instagram: 1.2 million followers

Twitter: 340.2k followers

Djibril Cisse | FAQs:

What does Djibril Cisse doing now?

Djibril Cisse currently plays as a striker in the National Premier Soccer League for Panathinaikos Chicago. Besides, he is also continuing his DJ’ing career across European dance venues.

Is Djibril Cisse UEFA Champions League title winner?

Yes, the athlete won the UEFA Champions League title in the 2004-05 season. Just before helping Liverpool win the title, he suffered a double leg break. 

However, the footballer made a quick recovery despite the seriousness of his injury. 

How did Djibril Cisse become Lord of the Manor of Frodsham?

In 2005 Cissé purchased a manor house in the village of Frodsham, Cheshire, after his move to Liverpool, and in doing so, became Lord of the Manor of Frodsham. According to sources, Djibril Cisse Frodsham’s house is worth £2m.

Is Chloe Green the girlfriend of Djibril Cissé?

According to sources, Chloe Green was in a relationship with Chloe Green in 2012.

Sanjib Sah
Sanjib Sah
Sanjib Sah is an engineer and content writer passionate about sports and athletics. With a background in engineering and a love for all things active, Sanjib brings a unique perspective to the world of sports writing. Whether he is covering the latest trends in sports technology or sharing tips on improving your game, Sanjib's words are always rooted in a deep appreciation for players' hard work and dedication everywhere. In his free time, you can find him hitting the courts or hitting the trails, always looking for new ways to challenge himself and improve his skills.

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